
Over the past several years the Jackson Parish Library (JPL) has made wonderful strides to become the place to go for not only good reading material but many specialized self-help programs for adults and children as well as educational resources. Another great advantage Jackson Parish residents receive while visiting either the Jonesboro or Chatham branch is the warmth and friendliness given by the dedicated staff.
This can be directly attributed to the leadership of Director Floyd Knox and Assistant Director Judy Robertson.
Before becoming Director this past year Knox served the library as the Business Coordinator for four years. He is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University with a major in Finance and a minor in Computer Information Systems. His resume includes many years of experience in the legal and financial industry. When not working hard to continue to improve the JPL the husband of Becky Knox and father of children Hunter and Allynah enjoys spending time with his family, playing the guitar and listening to podcasts featuring history, technology and science.
“Technology is ever changing and we must stay ahead by exploring new ideas without wasting time, energy and public funds on services that do not meet the long term goals of the Library,” said Knox when asked what his most important task as Director is.
Robertson also plays a big role as Assistant Director, where she lends invaluable experience. Before being promoted last year to second in command, Robertson served the JPL for fourteen years Resource Coordinator. She has also been the staff supervisor, trainer and library board liason. The wife of Charles Robertson and mother of son, Landon and his wife Hannah and daughters Kailyn and Gracie, loves to spend time with her family, cooking and reading.
“I love working with the staff to bring the highest quality programming to our residents as possible,” said Robertson when asked what it meant to be able to work at the Library. “I also enjoy having the opportunity to get to know the many patrons and seeing the amazement on the children’s faces when they come to one of our special exhibits.”
Upcoming Jonesboro Branch activities
The virtual program, sponsored by the LSU-AgCenter, features tips on how to manage your food dollars, staying physically active and having a balanced calorie controlled diet. Register by calling Cathy Judd at 318-251-5134.
January 14 – Break up with Salt (11:30am – 12:45 pm or 5:30pm – 6:30pm)
The virtual program, sponsored by the LSU AgCenter, provides information on the good and bad that the use of Salt does to your body. Register by calling Cathy Judd at 318-251-5134.
January 20th – Brown’s Hearing Market Research Program (10:00am – 4:00pm)
Participants can evaluate a new digital hearing instrument. This new digital technology is revolutionary in its ability to provide a natural sound experience within a device that is at the same time comfortable, discreet and easy to use. No registration required.
January 21 – Break up with Salt (11:30am – 12:45 pm or 5:30pm – 6:30pm)
January 22 – A New Year – A New You (11:00am – 12:00pm) The virtual program, sponsored by the LSU-AgCenter, features tips on how to manage your food dollars, staying physically active and having a balanced calorie controlled diet. Register by calling Cathy Judd at 318-251-5134.
January 28 – Break up with Salt (11:30am – 12:45 pm or 5:30pm – 6:30pm)
Upcoming Chatham Branch activities
A take home Fitness Class Program is available for check out by calling 318-249-2980
Children programs
Take Home Art Projects and Surprises are now available. To register call the Jonesboro branch at 318-259-5697 and speak to Terrye Shackleford.
Outreach Services
Monthly personalized delivery of books, audiobooks, magazines and more are available to residents of Jackson Parish, including Nursing Home residents and in-home daycares.
Traditional Services
Provided at both branches are the ability to check out Music CD’s, Graphic Novels, Books, Audio Books, Genealogy Resources, DVD’s, Magazines and E-books for your tablet/smartphone. Fax and copy services are also available. Printing can be done from your Smartphone or Tablets through a free mobile printing app by sending an email along with attachments to: jpl-jonesboro@printspots.com or jpl-chatham@printspots.com
Jonesboro Branch information:
Address: 614 South Polk Avenue
Phone: 318-259-5697
Fax: 318-259-3374
Hours of operation: Monday – Friday (8:00am – 5:30pm), Saturday (8:00am – 12:00pm)
Chatham Branch information:
Address: 1500 Pine Street
Phone: 318-249-2980
Fax: 318-249-2981
Hours of operation: Monday-Thursday (8:30am – 6:00pm), Friday & Saturday (8:30am-12:30pm)